Temotu Provincial Government Opposition leader Edward Daiwo has accused Temotu Premier Fr Brown Beu over the logging operation on Vanikoro Island.
The logging company is Jayer Berya Limited.
MP for Vaiakau ward Daiwo made the accusation on Wednesday during the assembly meeting to consider Temotu’s provincial budget 2014/2015.
Daiwo claimed that something fishy had happened over the legal requirements of their operations.
He urged that the executive to explain how they have guaranteed the logging license to the company.
Former Premier Daiwo pointed out that the opposition group has questioned how the executive have guaranteed the logging license without the consideration of the Temotu provincial government.
But in response Premier Beu assured the assembly that all legal requirements were fulfilled by the company and the landowners.
Beu said after the legal requirements, the provincial government gave them the permission and they paid due licenses for the operation.
“The company had paid their licenses to the provincial government budget to deliver the goods and services of the provinces before the financial year ends.”
Member of Provincial Assembly for Nevema ward Nelson Menale added that it is important for the executive to deploy officers to assess the environmental effects of the logging.
“Assessment of the logging site is important to ensure the executive to consider necessary steps to ensure the logging company must limit its damages.”
Premier Beu said this company has contributed to the provincial government $610,000.00.
He explained $300,000.00 for Vanikoro Lamba Limited, $10,000.00 for export permit and $300,000.00 for the Temotu provincial government.
By ELLIOT DAWEA
Reporting in Lata
